“<i>It’s not just about football</i>”: experiences of children with cerebral palsy and their parents with frame football

To explore the experiences of children with cerebral palsy (CP) and their parents participating in Frame Football, an adapted sport designed for individuals with walking limitations. A qualitative phenomenological approach was employed, involving semi-structured interviews with eight children (aged 9–16 years, GMFCS Levels II–IV) and ten parents. Data was analyzed using the Framework Method, with coding structured around the F-words for Child Development (Function, Family, Fitness, Fun, Friends, and Future). Interpretive analysis revealed three overarching themes: (1) Redefining Ability through Adapted Play—assistive devices were reimagined as enabling tools, supporting motor function and participation; (2) Belonging through Shared Experience—participants described emotional safety and social connection through shared challenges and teamwork; and (3) Claiming Identity as a Football Player—children embraced athletic roles, building confidence and pride through symbolic and embodied participation in the sport. These experiences spanned multiple F-words domains and highlighted the program’s social and emotional significance. Frame Football offers a meaningful, inclusive context in which children with CP can engage physically, connect socially, and develop positive self-identities. These findings underscore the potential of adapted sports to promote participation, reframe perceptions of ability, and support holistic development within pediatric rehabilitation. Adapted sports like Frame Football empower children with cerebral palsy by promoting physical engagement and reframing assistive devices as enabling tools. Social inclusion and emotional safety in team settings foster belonging, confidence, and peer connection. Sport participation builds identity, helping children see themselves as capable athletes, which supports motivation and well-being. Family-centered, community-based programs complement rehabilitation by addressing holistic developmental needs and encouraging sustained participation. Adapted sports like Frame Football empower children with cerebral palsy by promoting physical engagement and reframing assistive devices as enabling tools. Social inclusion and emotional safety in team settings foster belonging, confidence, and peer connection. Sport participation builds identity, helping children see themselves as capable athletes, which supports motivation and well-being. Family-centered, community-based programs complement rehabilitation by addressing holistic developmental needs and encouraging sustained participation.